MANILA (UCAN): A lone gunman opened fire at a law school graduation ceremony the Arete building at Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines on July 24, killing three people.
The shooter, Chao Tiao Yumol, opened fire on Rose Furigay, the former mayor of Lamitan City, Basilan in Mindanao, who was at the university campus for her daughter’s graduation ceremony.
Furigay, her executive assistant, Victor Capistrano and a university security guard died at the scene, while Furigay’s daughter was also wounded together with a bystander outside the graduation venue.
Ateneo de Manila University condemned the attack and extended its condolences and prayers to the victims and their families.
“There is no acceptable reason for violence. We hope and pray that justice will be swiftly served,” Ateneo said in a statement.
“It has robbed the members of the Law School class of 2022 of what was supposed to be a joyous celebration,” the university said in a statement.
The slain campus security guard, Jeneven Bandiala, was killed attempting to stop the shooter.
“Rest in peace… You are a true hero. Thank you for your service and for offering your life for the safety of the people you serve. I salute you,” Jesuit Father Ro Atilano wrote on Facebook.
Police said that the victims were about to enter the building when the shooting occurred.
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“The shooting happened an hour before the graduation at 4.00pm. He [Yumol] was a determined assassin. We found two pistols when we overpowered him,” Police Brig. Gen. Remus Medina told reporters on July 24, adding that the suspect attempted to escape but was immediately arrested after police officers gave chase.
Reports also revealed that the suspect is a medical doctor who appeared to have a grudge against Furigay who had filed cyber libel charges against him. Philippine authorities had suspended Yumol’s license to practice medicine.
Furigay had served three terms as mayor of Lamitan.
The university said it is presently trying to help traumatised students and staff affected by the incident.
